The first Pilatus PC-24 jet available for charter in the U.S., and the second one delivered to a U.S. customer.

Announced yesterday, Western Aircraft has added the first Swiss-built Pilatus PC-24 available for charter in the U.S., serial number 102, to the Part 135 certificate of its WestAir charter division, the company said. “This aircraft has superior speed, range, and runway performance,” according to Phil Winters, Western Aircraft’s vice president of aircraft sales and charter management. “It is also the first business jet in the world that has a standard pallet-sized cargo door, making the loading of even the bulkiest of items, such as a kayak, easy. It’s a true benefit for our charter customers.”

The Pilatus PC-24 jet and all 9 WestAir charter aircraft are in FlightList PRO‘s multi-search platform along with all 16,631 charter aircraft worldwide.

It is the second PC-24 delivered in the U.S., the first, serial number 101 went to fractional ownership company, PlaneSense.

Western Aircraft, the Boise, Idaho-based FBO and MRO provider said the PC-24 is in it’s WestAir’s aircraft management program. Western Aircraft noted WestAir’s experience operating Pilatus’ legacy and NG PC-12 turboprops, as well as its role as a Pilatus dealer and authorized service center.

WestAir has aircraft based in California, Idaho, and Washington, and provides service to more than 5,000 airports in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

Pilatus PC-24 jet cabin, the first available for charter in the U.S.

Western Aircraft, based in Boise, Idaho, is described by Pilatus as “its most successful dealership”, having sold more than 230 PC-12 single-engined turboprops since it joined the Swiss airframer’s network in 1996.

Looking for better charter sourcing options with less expense? The most-experienced charter brokers use FlightLIst PRO. See About FlightList PRO.

The business aviation services company says it has seen strong demand for the PC-24, “with more than a dozen offers to buy the first aircraft”.

Despite this demand Western has added aircraft #102 to its inventory, where it will be used for ad hoc charter and, for the coming year, as a company demonstrator. “This gives us the ability to show the PC-24 to existing order holders, and also to prospective customers who want to get in on the next block of aircraft when Pilatus re-opens the orderbook,” says Phil Winters.

Sources: Charter operator press release and articles by FlightGlobal and Aviation International News.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Leading air charter brokers and travel professionals use FlightList PRO’s full-market resources, economical rates and marketing opportunities to grow their service level, their business and their bottom line.

Planet Nine Private Air, LLC, launched its first Dassault Falcon 7X to the international charter market in June, 2018, and added a second 7X in September. Now Planet Nine announces the third aircraft to its all-Falcon 7X floating fleet.

The Planet Nine fleet is available in the Floating Fleet section of FlightList PRO‘s multi-search platform along with all 533 floating fleet aircraft and 37 operators.

Headquartered out of Los Angeles, California and London, U.K. with a staff of 28 full time employees, co-founders Matt Walter and James Seagrim are positioning Planet Nine to offer a compelling and competitive offering in the premium end of the ultra long-range charter market.

“Charter broker relationships will be very important to Planet Nine, and we are looking forward to working with all the traditional and disruptive companies. Our operation will center on a floating fleet model, and the efficiency it brings to our operations we can then pass on to our customers and friends in the form of better pricing.”

From London, Kirti Odedra heads the Sales Department and Bill Wulf, a former Senior VP and Chief Financial Officer of NetJets with a 20-year tenure serving the group in the US and internationally, serves as Chief Financial Officer. Combined, the management team has over 75 years’ experience in business aviation.

P9 brings a new offering into the long haul business jet market with the 5,950 nm range Falcon 7X, stylishly configured for 11-16 passengers, with six beds for overnight flying. With operating costs at least 30% lower than equivalent Gulfstream G550 and Bombardier Global 6000 aircraft, the 7X has a distinct advantage over its competition. Its aircraft will all feature sparklingly refurbished cabin interiors, including full Wi-Fi and IFE from Gogo/Swift Broadband. On all domestic charters in the US, Wi-Fi will be complimentary.

“Charter broker relationships will be very important to Planet Nine, and we are looking forward to working with all the traditional and disruptive companies,” said Director of Sales, Kirti Odedra.

“Our operation will centre on a floating fleet model, and the efficiency it brings to our operations we can then pass on to our customers and friends in the form of better pricing,” said James Seagrim, Director of Operations. “From our previous careers at Advanced Air Management, we built an unbeatable boutique operation, renowned for its service, safety and efficiency.

Obtaining Wyvern Wingman status in October 2018 was a very pleasing endorsement, said P9PA’s CFO, Bill Wulf, who previously spent 23 years at NetJets in various leadership roles. “As a group of dedicated aviation professionals, we are pleased to be accredited so early in our history, fulfilling Wyvern’s rigorous safety and maintenance requirements,” he said.

The Wyvern endorsement recognizes P9PA’s “delivery of consistent and exceptional service and acknowledges the business has the infrastructure to support over 20 aircraft with a best-in-class finance function to deliver a seamless flight experience to their clientele”.

“Planet Nine has demonstrated a commitment to safety through its established safety management system,” said Sonnie Bates, CEO of Wyvern. “In its quest to successfully achieve Wingman Certified status they have embraced The Wingman Standard, and proven they go above and beyond minimum regulatory requirements, allowing them to become an industry leader in safety culture.”

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Leading air charter brokers and travel professionals use FlightList PRO’s full-market resources, economical rates and marketing opportunities to grow their service level, their business and their bottom line.

Announcing four new aircraft to the charter market in the U.S. Popular models for charter, the Falcon 7X, Hawker 800XP, Learjet 60XR and King Air 350 are based in favored charter locations for their type aircraft, and are currently available for charter. Operators include Gama Aviation, Cirrus Aviation Services, Elevate Jet and Jet Access Aviation. The below new additions all are ARGUS-rated Gold or Platinum.

All are available through the FlightList PRO aircraft sourcing platform, which includes all 16,631 aircraft and 3,419 charter operators, the world’s largest.

Learjet 60XR new to charter, based New Haven, CT and operated by Gama Aviation.

King Air 350, based PBI West Palm Beach, FL

Operated by Jet Access Aviation

ARGUS Platinum

8 passengers in double-club seating

2004 aircraft, refurbished 2016

King Air 350 new to charter, based PBI West Palm Beach, FL and operated by Jet Access Aviation.

Sources: Charter operator announcements

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Leading air charter brokers and travel professionals use FlightList PRO’s full-market resources, economical rates and marketing opportunities to grow their service level, their business and their bottom line.

Announcing heavy, super-midsize and light jets new to charter in Florida, the Northeast and the West. Popular charter aircraft models in popular locations from operators Jet Edge, Elite Air, Latitude 33 and Custom Jet Charters, they have added the following jets to their charter certificates and are currently available. The below new additions all are ARGUS-rated Gold or Platinum.

All are available through the FlightList PRO sourcing platform, which includes all 16,631 aircraft and 3,419 charter operators, the world’s largest.

Legacy 600, based TEB Teterboro, NJ

Operated by Jet Edge

ARGUS Platinum

Wyvern Wingman

4G Wi-Fi complimentary

2015 Interior

New to charter, Legacy 600 based KTEB operated by Jet Edge

Challenger 650, based ORL Orlando, FL

Operated by Elite Air

11 passenger

ARGUS Platinum

Wi-Fi complimentary

2018 Aircraft

New to charter, 2018 Challenger 650 based KORL Orlando, FL operated by Elite Air

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Leading air charter brokers and travel professionals use FlightList PRO’s full-market resources, economical rates and marketing opportunities to grow their service level, their business and their bottom line.

Costco Wholesale is now offering annual memberships to private flight membership program Wheels Up on Costco.com. Offered at $17,500.00 for an annual individual membership, the purchaser is awarded a bonus $3,500 Costco Cash Card E-Voucher.

Membership regular price for individuals is $17,500 annually and corporations $29,500 annually according to Corporate Jet Investor. Annual dues (starting second year) are then $8,500 for individuals and $14,500 for corporations, plus a fixed hourly price for each hour flown – the cost per hour of getting on the King Air is $4,495 per hour and the Citation Excel/XLS is $7,495 per hour according to a report from the private aviation industry resource.

By comparison charter rates for the King Air 350 average around $2,000 per hour in the US including fees and surcharges, and charter rates for the Citation Excel/XLS average $3,850 per hour round-trip and around $6,000 per hour one-way, according to Rick Colson, president of New Flight Charters, a nationwide leader with a best price guarantee on every flight. The Wheels Up program may be advantageous for those who (1) are frequent users – more than 150 hours per year to bring the total costs per hour down, and who (2) usually fly one-way flights or round trips over many days, according to Colson. “A membership fee does not mean better hourly rates or reliability in this market. Look at your historical or expected usage and compare costs,” he says.

Of note on a comparison basis, the King Air 350i requires 18% more flight time than light jets for the same trip, therefore flight costs increase 18% to $5,068 on trip cost comparison basis to light jets.

The Wheels Up fleet includes King Air 350i turboprops, Citation Excel/XLS midsize jets, and now two Citation X super-midsize jets.. Costco offers the Wheels Up memberships in their section for Holiday, Gifts & Tickets > Hotels & Tourist Attractions.

– First published in 2015, last updated 11/1/18 to reflect Wheels Up price adjustments –

Announced today, Thomas Flohr’s Vista Global has acquired XOJET, the third largest US business jet charter operator by flight hours.

Vista Global says that the acquisition of XOJET will allow it to expand further in the US. It launched VistaJet in America in September 2013.

VISTA GLOBAL

Nine days ago, on September 11, 2018, Thomas Flohr announced the launch of Vista Global Holding (“Vista Global”), headquartered at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) which “will spearhead the consolidation of the fragmented and expanding business aviation market.”

Thomas Flohr, Founder and Chairman of Vista Global Holding

The group owns VistaJet, Vista Lease, TechX and at the closing of this newly announced transaction, XOJET’s fleet and commercial operations.

According to the Vista Global Holding press release, “Vista Global’s fleets will provide every customer with asset-lite solutions to fly point to point anytime, anywhere at a moment’s notice – either with guaranteed aircraft availability or On Demand. In addition, Vista Global will offer the very first worldwide leasing and financing service for customer looking to purchase a dedicated aircraft. Complementing its consumer and trade offer, Vista Global will also support aviation companies looking to improve services to their clients through the most advanced technology, providing an end to end platform in a very fragmented global operator marketplace.”

XOJET

Regarding the XOJET acquisition, “The journey started when I first saw an opportunity in the fragmented and inconsistent offering across the industry. Vista Global’s mission is to provide customer-centric solutions for every segment of business aviation and today’s announcement is a major step in that direction,” said Thomas Flohr, Vista Global founder and chairman. “This acquisition is the perfect addition to our global business. XOJET’s strength in North America and its reputation for offering great value perfectly complement VistaJet and the other businesses in the group.”

Bradley Stewart, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of XOJET, said: “I am incredibly proud to be making today’s announcement, which will see our company become part of a fantastic family of brands. Becoming part of Vista Global will enable XOJET to achieve our dream of becoming a truly global business, providing us with the very best technology and infrastructure. I believe that Vista Global and XOJET are fundamentally aligned in our commitment to serving clients. I am looking forward to working with the Vista Global team and its companies in the future.”

XOJET and VistaJet’s full fleets are available in the Floating Fleet section of FlightList PRO‘s multi-search platform along with all 533 floating fleet aircraft and 37 operators.

XOJET will continue to operate independently, under a new joint venture company, with control and leadership remaining in US hands to meet airline ownership regulations. The carrier has a fleet of 44 business jets, which includes 27 Cessna Citation Xs.

The acquisition is a major step forward for Vista Global, allowing the group to build on its existing global offering and to reinforce its existing position in North America, the largest business aviation market in the world. Following today’s announcement and upon closing of the acquisition, Vista Global will have 1,500 employees in 20 offices worldwide according to its press release.

Corporate Jet Investor reports that 10 companies were originally interested in acquiring the company, with a final round of bidding including three companies. Shareholders first held talks during the 2017 NBAA convention.

XOJET’s largest shareholders were TPG, one of the world’s most-successful aviation investors, and Mubadalla, the sovereign wealth fund of Abu Dhabi. Although TPG was the largest shareholder, Mubadalla financed the fleet and held significant amounts of XOJET debt.

The acquisition price or other conditions has not been announced.

ARGUS says that XOJET flew 46,739 flight hours in the first six months of 2018. GAMA Aviation (which operates for itself and for membership provider Wheels Up) flew 72,885 hours followed by Executive Jet Management with 58,305 hours.

Completion of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions. There is no financing condition to the transaction. The transaction is currently expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2018.XOJET’s regulated air carrier will be operated in a joint venture under U.S. control and leadership, in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation criteria.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

FlightList PRO, at $90 for 3 users no contract, is a favorite of the most experienced charter brokers and travel professionals; 80% of FlightList PRO users have been arranging charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years. Free trials available.

The U. S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is issuing a Final Rule on the role of Air Charter Brokers and consumer disclosures applying to Air Charter Brokers, air taxis and commuter air carriers, and unfair or deceptive practices or unfair methods of competition.

Timeline; in 2007 the DOT published an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM), took public comments, and in 2013 issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) and took public comments.

Published by document in the Federal Register Sept. 17, the DOT is issuing a Final Rule “to facilitate innovation and growth in the air charter industry while strengthening the legal protections provided to consumers of charter air transportation.”

The rule has a publish date of 09/17/2018 and becomes effective 02/14/2019.

DOT Final Rule Main Points

According to the document, the final rule:

Codifies and allows ‘‘air charter brokers’’ as principals or bona fide agents to provide single entity charter air transportation of passengers.

Requires air charter brokers to make certain disclosures including those responsive to a National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recommendation and to make other disclosures upon request.

Enumerates certain practices by air charter brokers as prohibited unfair or deceptive practices or unfair methods of competition.

Requires air taxis and commuter air carriers that sell charter air transportation to make certain disclosures including those responsive to an NTSB recommendation and other disclosures upon request.

enumerates certain practices by an air taxi or commuter air carrier as prohibited unfair or deceptive practices or unfair methods of competition.

According to the document, The DOT is not adopting a proposal to codify exemption authority allowing indirect air carriers to engage in the sale of air transportation related to air ambulance services. Nor is it adopting a proposal to codify certain air transportation services performed under contract with the Federal Government.

The DOT’s final rule document includes each DOT-proposed rule, summary of comments on the rule, and the final DOT Response. It is published here in the Federal Register with a date of 09/17/2018. The pdf “official electronic format” is published here.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

FlightList PRO, at $90 for 3 users no contract, is a favorite of the most experienced charter brokers and travel professionals; 80% of FlightList PRO users have been arranging charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years. Free trials available.

Each year Inc. Magazine names the fastest-growing privately held small companies in the U.S., called the “Inc. 5000”. The companies are ranked by overall revenue growth over the prior three-year period. All 5,000 honoree companies are individually profiled on Inc.com.

Inc. also ranks the companies into sub-categories by industry, state, metro, city and others.

Five private air charter operator and broker companies were named to the 2018 Inc. 5000. The below information is from the Inc. 5000, and shown in order of ranking, 3-year growth rate:

Paramount Business Jets(charter broker) Offers private flights to and from any city in the world with as little as four hours of notice.

2018 Rank #2550

Leadership: Richard Zaher

2017 Revenue $15.4M

3-Year Growth 168%

Founded 2005 Employees 20

A three-time Inc. 5000 honoree, 2013, 2014, 2018

Private Jets
(charter operator) Provides customer service worldwide in the aircraft charter industry. Serves as an aircraft charter operator for individuals as well as businesses nationwide.

2018 Rank #2776

Leadership: Happy Wells

2017 Revenue $17.4M

3-Year Growth 149%

Founded 1987Employees 50

Magellan Jets
(charter broker) Provides national and international charter jet flights. Offers private jet membership programs and other services for those who require a private jet when they are traveling. One of its perks is the low 10-hour notice that is required before a flight is booked.

2018 Rank #3737

Leadership: Joshua Hebert

2017 Revenue $38M

3-Year Growth 98%

Founded 2008 Employees 35

A six-time Inc. 5000 honoree, 2013 – 2018

Sources: Inc. 5000, Inc.com

FlightList PRO, at $90 for 3 users no contract, is a favorite of the most experienced charter brokers and travel professionals; 80% of FlightList PRO users have been arranging charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years. Free trials available.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Launched in 2008, PrivateFly will combine with charter broker Skyjet, “to create one of the world’s largest online booking platforms for private jet charter, one with a robust digital platform and a physical geography and assets tailored for countries on four continents,” according to Directional’s press release. No purchase price was disclosed.

The combined PrivateFly/Skyjet entity will have a presence in both the U.S. and Europe and will leverage OneSky’s existing assets and infrastructure.

Charter Alerts – current news about charter operators, brokers and aircraft – are posted by FlightList PRO, serving charter brokers and operators with the largest platform of aircraft in the U.S., Europe and worldwide.

For its part, PrivateFly acquired U.S.-based broker Bird Dog Jet last November bringing with it a preferred supplier relationship to the $23.7 billion Virtuoso network of luxury travel agencies.

PrivateFly co-founders Adam Twidell and Carol Cork will lead Skyjet/PrivateFly as CEO and chief marketing officer, respectively, a OneSky spokesman told Aviation International News. They will both report to Andrew Collins, who is now the global brand manager for Skyjet, PrivateFly, and Sentient Jet, and also retains his title as president and CEO of Sentient Jet.

Directional Aviation also holds aircraft remanufacturer Nextant Aerospace as well as various parts, services, leasing, and aircraft finance businesses and was estimated to have $2.5 billion in revenues and 3,000 employees in 2017.

Directional has been growing through acquisitions domestically and abroad. It acquired Sentient Jet in 2012 and then Flexjet and Skyjet in 2013. In 2016, it acquired U.K. charter operator FlairJet. Directional principal Ken Ricci last year told Forbes.com, “What I see happening is opportunities overseas more – we are starting to see a shift to more opportunities outside the U.S. than within it.”

FlightList PRO, at $90 for 3 users no contract, is a favorite of the most experienced charter brokers and travel professionals; 80% of FlightList PRO users have been arranging charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years. Free trials available.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

The aircraft floor plan is a 12 passenger executive configuration and new 2018 renovated modern interior, with a layout of four forward individual captains chairs, an aft 4-place divan opposing a 4-place conference group. The aircraft is equipped with a full-sized forward galley, microwave, complimentary WiFi, display monitors, HD Inflight Entertainment and Airshow 400.

JetReady’s floating fleet is included in the Floating Fleets section of FlightList PRO‘s multi-search platform along with all 326 floating fleet aircraft and 29 operators.

JetReady’s Chief Executive Officer, Nigel England stated, “We are thrilled to announce the newest Challenger addition to our charter certificate and look forward to the continued growth of our company.”

The Challenger joins JetReady’s charter floating fleet of now 5 heavy jets; 3 Challenger 601’s and 2 Gulfstream IV-SP’s. The operator reports more aircraft of these same types, plus Hawker 800XP models in the pipeline for Part-135 charter.

Source: Company press release

FlightList PRO, at $90 for 3 users no contract, is a favorite of the most experienced charter brokers and travel professionals; 80% of FlightList PRO users have been arranging charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years. Free trials available.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Part 135 flying led business aviation last month with a 15 percent climb in large cabin jet charters.

From Aviation International News 4/9/18:

Business aircraft flying in the U.S. and Canada continued its ascent last month, but the 2.6 percent year-over-year increase was once again almost solely due to rising Part 135 activity, according to TraqPak data released by Argus International. Weaker flying at the fractional providers and especially at Part 91 operators caused activity to miss the company’s estimate for a 4.2 percent increase in March; this month, it is expecting a 2.8 percent rise.

By operator category, Part 135 flying led the pack last month, climbing 7.7 percent year-over-year, while fractional activity ventured back into positive territory, with a 0.6 percent gain over March 2017. Part 91 activity also remained anemic, once again recording a slight loss, falling 0.4 percent from a year ago.

All aircraft categories saw increases last month, with large-cabin jets coming out ahead with a 4.7-percent year-over-year increase, despite a 20.4 percent erosion in fractional large-cabin jet flying. This was followed by midsize jets, up 4.4 percent; turboprops, 1.8 percent; and light jets, 0.2 percent.

The only double-digit gain in individual categories last month belonged to Part 135 large-cabin jets, which rose 15.1 percent from a year ago. All individual categories under Part 91 suffered losses, with the exception of large-cabin jets, which rose 4.5 percent.

FlightList PRO, at $90 for 3 users no contract, is a favorite of the most experienced charter brokers and travel professionals; 80% of FlightList PRO users have arranged charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years. Free trials available.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

U.S. charter operator Prime Jet has announced two Gulfstream additions to its charter fleet; a 14-passenger Gulfstream IV-SP newly available based at SDL Scottsdale, AZ, and a 16-passenger Gulfstream V available beginning this summer and based from PBI West Palm Beach, FL, according to the operator.

The pictured Gulfstreams join Prime Jet’s charter fleet which now grows to 12 aircraft- all Gulfstream jets, based across the U.S. and internationally. The operator floats 8 of them with one-way pricing, and are included in FlightLIst PRO’s Floating Fleets section.

Large cabin jet charters are on the rise, and the category leads the increase in charter flying last month. Large cabin jet charters were up a significant 15.1% year-over-year in March, despite a 20.4% decline in fractional ownership large cabin jet flying, according to data released by ARGUS. Part 135 charter flying increased 7.7% overall for March year-over-year.

The Gulfstream V and IV-SP with Prime Jet carry ratings of ARGUS Platinum, Wyvern Wingman and ISBAO-registered. FlightList PRO is the only charter platform that includes operator’s safety ratings from all four organizations; ARGUS, Wyvern, ISBAO and ACSF.

Source: Company announcements

FlightList PRO, at $90 for 3 users no contract, is a favorite of the most experienced charter brokers and travel professionals; 80% of FlightList PRO users have been arranging charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years. Free trials available.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Announced last week, OJets, a new provider of business aviation services, launched charter service with a Bombardier Global 6000 and a Bombardier Challenger 650, newly purchased from Minsheng Financial Leasing Co., Ltd., and reported bold plans for growth.

OJets charter aircraft are available only in the FlightList PRO multi-search platform, the only source with all 16,631 charter aircraft and 3,419 operators worldwide.

“We are honored to have closed with Minsheng Finance Leasing Co. of China as our finance partner and look forward to building our relationship as we expand OJets,” said Michael Ta, CFO, OJets. “We have implemented a growth objective to quadruple the size of OJets’ current fleet by the end of Q2. This growth is underpinned by $350M in equity and debt; and will establish OJets as a global operator with one of the newest fleets of long range business aircraft in service.”

Block Hour Program, for frequent travelers. Highly-personalized service with 48-hour guaranteed aircraft availability at a fixed hourly rate, including: global coverage without ferry fees within service area, no initiation fee and no monthly management fees.

Headquartered in Singapore, OJets’ world-class team is guided by a commitment to delivering industry-defining service – tailored to the most discerning Asian and international business travelers.

Including OJets aircraft, heavy and ultra long range jets based in the Singapore area now number 10 with 7 different charter operators; 2 Challengers, 2 Gulfstream 450, 2 Gulfstream 550, 1 Global 5000 and 3 Global 6000 aircraft. FlightList PRO is the only source with all charter aircraft in Singapore and worldwide.

OJets 14-passenger Challenger 650 for charter based Singapore.

The OJets brand features the signature “O”, inspired the Asian symbol “enso”, which represents strength, elegance and infinity. Enso is the embodiment of OJets’ vision of connecting East and West with a global reach at the pinnacle of luxury business aviation.

“We are delighted to collaborate with OJets, a new integrated provider of comprehensive business aviation services, to bring a Global 6000 and a Challenger 650 into its fleet,” said Mr. Wang Fuhou, President, Business and Commercial Aviation Leasing Division, Minsheng Financial Leasing Co., Ltd. “Both parties are confident in our partnership and in the business aviation market. We look forward to the success of this cooperation.”

About OJets
Headquartered in Singapore, OJets is an integrated provider of comprehensive business aviation services, including owning and operating a private fleet. For more information see http://www.ojets.com.

Source: OJets press release

FlightList PRO, at $90 for 3 users no contract, is a favorite of the most experienced charter brokers and travel professionals; 80% of FlightList PRO users have been arranging charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years. Free trials available.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Growing charter operator Global Air Charter based at STP St. Paul, MN has become the latest of a growing number of floating fleet operators, chartering the below 16-passenger Gulfstream IV-SP and 12-passenger Gulfstream IV with one-way pricing. Global’s charter fleet also includes a 12-seat Gulfstream III and a Citation Mustang. Floating fleets are a prominent and growing segment in private jet charter, noted below.

With the update, the FlightList PRO Floating Fleets resource now includes 27 charter operators with 316 jets dedicated to point-to-point pricing, with the ability to request quotes from multiple selected operators at once. Aircraft types run the gamut of business jets, from light jet to heavy and long range jets. With the update, below are the totals by category of charter jets available in the U.S. for point-to-point pricing:

FlightList PRO Air Charter Search Results

90 light jets

77 midsize jets

76 super midsize jets

73 Heavy and long range jets

Charter pricing with floating fleets can be quite advantageous for one way needs or round trips over many days. Cancellation terms can vary and be stricter with the pricing advantage and the logistics of point-to-point charter flying. Most operators are non-cancelable inside 72 hours from scheduled departure while some are shorter or even immediately upon booking. With this typical business model, most floating fleets are owned by the operator or are under management agreements whereby separate ‘owner approval’ is not required. Ages of floating fleet aircraft, much like traditional charter fleets, vary from brand new production line aircraft to manufacture dates in the 70’s or 80’s. All listed operators have at least one independent auditor safety rating, and more than half have 2 or more of the top ratings; ARGUS Platinum, Wyvern Wingman and ISBAO Registered.

FlightList PRO is used by the most successful and experienced brokers and travel professionals in the industry; 80% of users have arranged charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Air charter activity is up worldwide according to data and anecdotal reports. US and global economies are favorable and consumer sentiment is improving. Recent US tax law changes are providing incentive and resources for business growth in the US and helping fuel the upward trend of business aviation for 2018.

We will let the industry speak for itself; from 15 air charter companies, organizations and individuals- compiled here are their own results, projections and commentary on business now and looking forward.

Jason Middleton, CEO, Silver Air

From January 18 Forbes.com: “For us at Silver Air, the outlook for 2018 is great in pretty much all areas. We are seeing aircraft sales go up, aircraft charter volume is going up, and charter clients are stepping up in the size of aircraft as well. We are seeing a particularly strong upswing in the Super Mid category. Aircraft like the Citation X and Challenger 300 are in high demand for charter.

PrivateFly

From company website and several online articles: (PrivateFly acquired US broker Bird Dog Jet in 2017) “PrivateFly has grown over 50% again in 2017, and we are looking to continue that growth path in 2018, in large part by U.S. expansion. We’ve grown both top line revenue and bottom line EBITDA as a profitable online platform in the digital space proving true viability. After opening our first US office in 2016, we’ve expanded our team with the recent takeover of Bird Dog Jet and received several new awards and accolades. These steps are just the beginning of our American growth, and we have big plans for 2018.”

Jamie Walker, President & CEO, Jet Linx Aviation

From January 18 Forbes.com: “Our Jet Card business is growing at a strong and steady pace as more individuals realize the need for private aviation both in their business and leisure travel. Our average growth rate over the past five years has been 30% or more for both revenue and flight hours. I expect that business growth and utilization will continue to grow at 30% or more in 2018.

Overall, we’re seeing tremendous opportunities for growth in 2018 and beyond and are looking to expand to new markets on the east and west coasts, including Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Salt Lake City and San Jose.”

New Flight Charters

Leading charter brokerage New Flight Charters announced in a national release about current jet charter trends and results: 12.5% increase in charter business overall lead by growth in midsize, super-midsize and heavy jets (+16%), and also turboprops (+18%) in that growing charter market segment. International charters increased by 40% in 2017, led by flights to the Caribbean and Mexico. Drivers to the growth included improved pricing options with floating fleets, personnel/service level, and increased repeat clients. January 2018, it reports, continued the same trends. The company offers the industry’s only “best price guarantee” for jet charter pricing and quotes.

Sergey Petrossov, CEO, JetSmarter

From January 18 Forbes.com:“Business is great. We grew over 100% in 2017 for revenue and over 150% in passengers flown. We expect to double again in size in 2018. For the market, we believe the sharing economy will consume private aviation all the way from aircraft ownership to single seat bookings, and consumers will use multiple biz jet solutions for their travel needs.”

Monarch Air Group

Monarch Air Group, an aircraft management company, charter operator and charter broker based in Texas and Florida, published predictions for 2018.

ARGUS

ARGUS through AIN Online 2/5/18:
For the first quarter, Argus predicts a 5 percent jump in year-over-year business aircraft traffic. January will lead the gains with a 5.4 percent increase, with February and March up 4.8 percent and 4.9 percent, respectively. Overall, business aircraft flights in the first quarter are expected to number 759,169.

Business aviation flights in the U.S. and Canada topped 3 million last year, reaching that mark for the first time since 2008, according to a 2017 Business Aircraft Activity Review released by Argus International. The 30-page review, which details Argus TraqPak flight activity data in 2017, reports that business aviation flights increased 3.9 percent overall and flight hours jumped 5.5 percent over 2016.

Year-over-year gains were posted in every month of 2017, Argus said, adding that the improvements were fairly consistent throughout the year. Activity in the first half of 2017 was up 3.9 percent over the same period in 2016, while activity in the second half of 2017 was up 3.8 percent.

Part 135 operations enjoyed the greatest gains, rising 9.2 percent last year. This improvement was driven by Part 135 large-cabin jet operations, which led all increases in 2017 with a 14.9 percent jump. Fractional flights ended the year up 4.7 percent, while Part 91 flights inched up 0.1 percent in 2017. Increased Part 91 large-cabin and midsize jet flights—up 2.9 percent and 1.2 percent, respectively—offset a slide in Part 91 light jet flights, down 0.7 percent, and turboprop flights, down 1.3 percent.

Joe Moeggenberg, CEO, ARGUS

From January 18 Forbes.com: “For the first time since 2008, flight activity reached over three million flights in 2017, an upward trend we expect to see into 2018 as our TRAQPak analysis forecasted flight activity for Q1 in 2018 to increase 5% year over year. In 2017, Part 135 activity saw the largest year over year operation category increase of over 9% and large cabin aircraft saw the largest year over year increase across the industry, up almost 15%.

Steve Orfali, CEO, Jetset Group Inc. and Wholesale Jet Club

From January 18 Forbes.com: “We believe 2018 will be another very strong year for our companies. Jetset Group saw a 30% increase in business in 2017, and we project about the same in 2018. The economy continues to flourish, and we are seeing more and more people shift to private jet travel as a result of it. I believe we will see some rising fuel prices in 2018, which could bring up the pricing on charters, but that’s why many people opt for our jet cards. They have guaranteed rates with no fuel surcharges.”

Gary Hammes, President, Delta Private Jets

From January 18 Forbes.com: “Business is strong, and with current economic conditions and stock market patterns we are anticipating another record year in 2018. We continue to see strong demand for our product, especially in the corporate space. We expect to grow our charter business 15-20% and we expect a 20% increase in Jet Card sales. As 2018 progresses, we will continue to expand our fleet by about 15 aircraft to meet growth targets and demand. We are developing an enhanced jet card product, and we recently launched our Sky Access membership program which offers access to empty legs and fixed hourly rate private jet travel.”

ACI jets

ACI Jet is an FBO, aircraft manager and charter operator based in Southern California with a charter fleet of 11 midsize through ultra long range jets.

From article in Paso Magazine: “Known for its work as a Fixed Base Operator (FBO), ACI Jet has locations at airports in Orange County, Oceano, San Luis Obispo, and Paso Robles, but the company began when Bill Borgsmiller fueled his Piper Seneca III as the company’s first charter aircraft in 1998.

ACI Jet now employs 190 people, operates a fleet of private jet aircraft, and celebrates a banner year in 2017 with a 20-year anniversary and more growth in 2018.

“In this last year, one of the most exciting things is a new location in Orange County,” Borgsmiller said. “We are adding new aircraft to the fleet. There is big growth.”

In concert with the expansion at the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, ACI Jet is building a 35,000-square-foot office complex, and an adjacent 25,000-square-foot hangar as its corporate headquarters on the grounds.”

Andrew Collins, CEO, Sentient Jet and Skyjet

From January 18 Forbes.com: “We had an incredibly strong year at both Sentient Jet and Skyjet. Each brand saw growth in many of our key-performance measurements. We moved into new headquarters, launched new products, and pushed our brand and partnership visibility up a few notches.

I feel relatively bullish on 2018 within the major client markets that we serve, especially those in the financial sector. We’re projecting significant growth at both brands and seek to continue to push into new product categories and client segments.

Lastly, it feels like a number of upstarts that pursued significant growth models will continue to have industry visibility. However, unlike perhaps the past few years, they will have to mature their models to meet investor requests and demands and provide real insight into how they will scale and how they plan on truly impacting the private aviation buying segment.”

Greg Raiff, CEO, Private Jet Services (PJS) Group

From January 18 Forbes.com: “Our corporate and leisure business was up year over year more than 100% when we compare 2016 to 2017. We expect that dynamic growth to continue in 2018, as the geometric increase in the number of private flyers globally, and the price efficiency of our solution gains broad recognition.”

Kenny Dichter, Founder and CEO, Wheels Up

From January 18 Forbes.com: “Wheels Up is celebrating its 5th anniversary in 2018. We expect another banner year and to exit with 6,000 active members and a $400 million run rate with over 100 aircraft. We took delivery of our first three Citation Xs so we are now a three airplane type fleet. Wheels Up is revenue growing at over 35% per year, and we expect that kind of growth rate moving forward.”

FlightList PRO is used by the most successful and experienced brokers and travel professionals in the industry; 80% of users have arranged charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Newly available Falcon 7X long range jet available for charter from Southern California, operated by CI Jets.

Now available, the only Falcon 7X from California, and one of just 9 for charter in the United States, CI Jets has announced their recent addition.

The charter operator, headquartered in Southern California at KCMA-Camarillo Airport, has added the 2008 long range 13-passenger Falcon 7X to their Part-135 certificate and it is currently taking charter bookings.

The Dassault Falcon 7X is currently the flagship business jet for Dassault. The 7X is a large-cabin, 5,950 NM range business jet, the largest of its Dassault Falcon line in current production. The model’s first flight was in 2005 and it entered service in 2007. It is the first fully fly-by-wire business jet. The cabin is 8 feet longer than the Falcon 900, seats 13 passengers and is capable of converting to sleeping accommodations for 6.

Cabin interior of the Falcon 7X newly available for charter from Southern California.

Updated cockpit and avionics of Falcon 7X available for charter.

All 9 Falcon 7X for charter are automatically included in the FlightList PRO multi-search platform, the only source with all 16,631 charter aircraft and 3,419 operators worldwide, automatically.

Features of this newly available Falcon 7X:

Refurbished 2015

Forward Galley

Seats 13 Passengers

Sleeps up to 6 Passengers

Free Domestic WiFi

International WiFi

GoGo Vision Entertainment Service

Cabin Host

Argus/Wyvern Crew

CI Jets has acquired the ARGUS Gold rating and has been in recent growth mode adding aircraft, and now offers three light jets for charter in addition to the large Falcon.

Source: company announcement

FlightList PRO is used by the most successful and experienced brokers and travel professionals in the industry; 80% of users have arranged charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Share this news:

Boeing Business Jet for charter with unrestricted availability, operated by Silver Air.

US charter operator Silver Air announces the coming addition of a Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) to its charter fleet, creating the nation’s only unrestricted charter availability on a world-class BBJ. Starting spring 2018, the new BBJ based in Southern California will begin serving global executive and entertainment markets.

Silver Air’s Boeing Business Jet has a 16-passenger VVIP cabin configuration. For overnight flights, a 10-passenger sleeping arrangement is available, complete with a master bedroom suite and private bathroom with shower.

The Boeing Business Jet is capable of flying more than 6,000 uninterrupted miles and is equipped with the amenities expected on an aircraft of this caliber including: global Wi-Fi, a VIP private office, lounge area, a full service galley with private chef services, and a high-end assortment of DEAN & DELUCA snacks and a selection of world class wines.

Boeing Business Jet cabin, operated by Silver Air with unrestricted availability.

All 20 Silver Air charter aircraft are included ONLY in the FlightList PRO multi-search platform along with all 16,631 charter aircraft and 3,419 operators worldwide automatically.

“This is an extremely unique opportunity for our charter clients to enjoy the ultimate private jet experience,” said Jason Middleton, Silver Air’s CEO. “Silver Air’s BBJ features the absolute highest level of service, luxury and comfort available in private aviation. There simply isn’t another charter operator in the country that has a BBJ of this caliber available on an unrestricted basis. It’s a game changer for Silver Air and our clients.”

The company’s charter fleet now numbers 20 aircraft, from turboprops to the new Boeing Business Jet. The operator has acquired the ARGUS Platinum and IS-BAO ratings, and is a member of the Air Charter Safety Foundation.

Source: company press release

FlightList PRO is used by the most successful and experienced brokers and travel professionals in the industry; 80% of users have arranged charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Announcing a new jet charter operator to the air charter industry, with a Hawker 1000 super midsize jet and two Citation SII light jets on certificate, based in the Austin-San Antonio, Texas metro area.

Freedom Jets (Certificate # 417A246O, USAC AIRWAYS 694 LLC) currently has ARGUS Gold provisional status and is Wyvern Registered. They are authorized to operate across North and South America and the Caribbean.

The Citation SII and Hawker 1000A include onboard Wi-Fi, and the Hawker features a fresh May-2017 interior and exterior refurbishment.

Freedom Jets is included in the FlightList PRO multi-search platform automatically, as are all 16,631 aircraft and 3,419 operators worldwide.

Hawker 1000A super-midsize 9-passenger jet now available for charter with operator Freedom Jets

One of two Citation SII light jets available for charter with operator Freedom Jets, based in the Austin-San Antonio Texas area.

Source: FlightList PRO

FlightList PRO is used by the most successful and experienced brokers and travel professionals in the industry; 80% of users have arranged charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Largest Public Listing includes over 150 Jet Charter Empty Legs Nationwide Sourced and Published by Top-Rated Jet Charter Brokerage.

New Flight Charters, a charter aircraft owner and leader in the private jet charter space since 2004, in a news release has announced the largest public listing of empty legs in the jet charter industry. The company now is listing over 150 upcoming and available empty legs from U.S. private charter aircraft.

Also known as dead-heads or ferry flights, empty legs are flights without passengers on board when an aircraft needs to be moved. Often a private charter jet will have empty leg flights associated with an existing flight schedule- when it needs to move to another location to start a charter, or return back to base after completing a charter, or the same situations for its owner flights.

These empty legs, when an aircraft needs to fly a certain direction, can be a unique opportunity for a low-cost jet charter. Aircraft can be re-routed to accommodate a charter flight need. For example, an empty leg from Houston to Denver can be rerouted for a Dallas to Aspen charter at a much lower than normal cost.

RATES

Rates can vary since each empty leg charter is unique, but pricing is typically 30-50% lower than standard charter quotes.

“When an empty leg matches up with a flight need, there is no better value in private flying,” commented Rick Colson, New Fight Charters’ president. “Working with the largest charter availability in the industry we use a variety of tools to source ideal aircraft options for any given charter request.”

FLOATING FLEETS

All Floating Fleets are listed only in the FlightList PRO multi-search platform along with all 16,631 charter aircraft and 3,419 charter operators worldwide.

Floating Fleets are a second attractive and lower cost solution. A fast-growing option in private jet charter is utilizing a non-based Floating Fleet aircraft for better one-way pricing, point-to-point. These can be available in all parts of the U.S., for all types of flying, from shorter one-hour flights to coast-to-coast and international flights. Floating Fleet aircraft do not have to return to a base, and thus can be more cost-effective charter options.

334 floating fleet jets are available nationwide through New Flight Charters; all sizes from light jets to ultra long-range jets such as the Global 5000. Charter quotes for these floating fleet aircraft are typically 15-30% less than traditional based aircraft.

Any requested charter need can be fully customized for aircraft, size, type, and amenities along with desired ratings or registrations from ARGUSÒ, Wyvern Ltd.Ò, IS-BAO or the Air Charter Safety Foundation.

About New Flight Charters

Since 2004 charter aircraft owner and leading U.S. private jet charter brokerage New Flight Charters has arranged private domestic and international flights with top-rated operator aircraft along with its jet charter pricing Best Price Guarantee, top aircraft availability, industry empty legs list, and a perfect safety history. As a registered U.S. government contractor with an A+ rating by the BBB, and named to the Inc.500 fastest growing list four consecutive years, the jet charter company handles 1,400 flights annually nationwide and serves a wide variety of clientele including Fortune 500 companies, government heads of state, presidential campaigns, entertainment icons, private families and entrepreneurs. Extensive client reviews and industry ratings are available on the New Flight Charters website.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry. FlightList PRO is used by the most successful and experienced brokers and travel professionals in the industry; 80% of users have arranged charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years.

International long range jet operator Zetta Jet ceased operations yesterday, Nov. 30, according to court documents. Zetta Jet owned and operated a fleet of branded Global 6000’s and Challenger 650’s and focused on the Asia-Pacific-US region, and had been embroiled in internal lawsuits and a Chapter 11 filing which is now moving to Chapter 7 proceedings. The operator is turning over it’s air carrier certificate to the U.S. FAA according to reports.

Global air charter operator Zetta Jet ceased operations November 30. A reliable source said the company is leaving its fleet of Bombardier Challengers and Globals parked where they are at the end of the day. (Photo: David McIntosh/AIN)

Aviation International News, by Kerry Lynch, Nov. 30

Just a few weeks after believing that it had lined up $8.5 million in post Chapter 11 petition financing, international air charter operator Zetta Jet is ceasing operations today and turning over its air operator’s certificate to the U.S. FAA. Court documents show that the trustee in the Zetta Jet bankruptcy case, Jonathan King, a partner and co-chair of DLA Piper’s white collar, corporate crime and investigations practice, has asked the court for a change from Chapter 11 proceedings to Chapter 7 proceedings. The change to liquidation came after the U.S. Court apparently denied Zetta Jet’s bid for new financing, a decision that was said to have come as a surprise.

Zetta Jet had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in September after ousting managing director Geoffery Cassidy. Zetta Jet in mid-November announced it had arranged financing from existing lessor Scout Aviation II and said it hoped to secure a buyer for the company.

The Zetta Jet brand was launched a little more than two years ago and had become one of the fastest-growing charter operators in the Asia-Pacific region with a fleet of Bombardier Globals and Challengers. Although it was originally a Singapore-based company, the bankruptcy proceedings were filed in U.S. courts. The U.S. branch was built up following a merger less than a year ago with aircraft management specialist Advanced Air Management.

The FlightList PRO multi-search platform, the world’s largest, includes all 16,631 charter aircraft and 3,419 charter operators worldwide. FlightList PRO is used by the most experienced brokers and travel professionals in the industry; 80% of users have arranged charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years. Access to the multi-search platform for 3 users is just $90/month-to-month.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Post navigation

Air Charter Industry Intelligence and Marketing Solutions:

Leading air charter brokers and travel professionals use FlightList PRO’s full-market resources, economical rates and marketing opportunities to grow their service level, their business and their bottom line.

Professional Aircraft Sourcing Platform:

The world’s largest and only full-charter-market sourcing platform for air charter professionals to maximize service level and success.Fast, easy, economical and 100% complete. Just $90/month, 3 users, no contract. Request a free trial. API’s available.

The platform is a favorite of the most successful charter brokers; 80% of users have arranged charter for more than 10 years, and a full ¼ of users have arranged charters for more than 20 years! These top brokers use the search platform more than 240 times daily.

Air Charter Business Accreditation:

FlightList PRO VERIFIEDEconomical, Professional and Independent Business Accreditation for Air Charter Brokerages. In the crowded airspace of air charter brokers, stand out to potential clients and industry partners as FlightList PROVERIFIED, accredited as a reputable and experienced air charter service company. See more information here.